Cities

Moab Scenic Drives

If you want to give your legs a rest from hiking and biking, another great way to explore Moab’s beautiful backcountry is by taking a driving tour. The following are some beautiful drives that will lead you incredible lookout points and little known geological treasures. Click on one of the links below to view a description about the drive.

Scenic Byway 128:

On this drive you will enjoy the contrast of red sandstone cliffs and the Colorado River which runs adjacent to this Scenic Byway. The road connects US 191 with I-70, and features such attractions as Fisher Towers, which loom 1500 feet above the valley floor, and Dewey Bridge, a one-lane suspension bridge which was used until 1986. The bridge has been placed on the National Historic Register. You will see the Hittle Bottom Homestead, which is located at a popular picnic and boat launch and was the turn-of-the-century home of a local mail carrier. Scenic Byway 128 begins 3 miles north of Moab and runs 44 miles to the junction with I-70 near Cisco. May be driven in conjunction with the La Sal Mtn. Loop Road.

Abajo/Blue Mountain Drive:

This is a 40 mile scenic drive through the Manit-La Sal National Forest from Monticello to Blanding. This drive is usually suitable for passenger cars, but you should check with the locals about road conditions before taking the drive. Harts Draw Road west and north of Monticello provides an alternate route to Canyonlands National Park. Paved. 25 mi. to jct. with Hwy 211.

Scenic Byway 279:

Travel through the red rock gorge of the Colorado River. Along the way you will have the opportunity to see dinosaur tracks, Indian petroglyphs and arches. 3 miles north of Moab off U.S. 191. Allow one hour for the 36-mile round trip.

Petrolgyph Drive:

See petroglyphs along the roadside. This trip goes along the south side of the Colorado River. Hurrah Pass, a fine overlook point, is about 15 miles from Moab via graded road. Road beyond is 4-wheel drive. Allow 3 hours.

Manti-LaSal National Forest:

On this ride the cool mountain green with lakes nestled in the pines contrast the surrounding stretches of red cliffs, canyons and monoliths. Allow 4 hours - Oowah Lake 23 miles SE - 2 miles of dirt road; Warner Lake 25 miles SE - 4 miles of dirt road.

Looking Glass Rock:

An easy to reach natural wonder resembling a looking glass. Allow 1.5 hours - 25 miles SE on Hwy. 191 and a short graded road.